Philippians #10: Sharing is Caring

PHILIPPIANS: THE POWER OF A GOSPEL COMMUNITY

#10 - Sharing is Caring
Pastor Aaron Sutherland  

Series scripture
Philippians 1:6 (CEB) "I’m sure about this: the one who started a good work in you will stay with you to complete the job by the day of Christ Jesus."

I. THE GOSPEL COMMUNITY INVITES US TO A SHARED CONCERN
PHIL. 4:10 (CEB) "I was very glad in the Lord because now at last you have shown concern for me again. (Of course you were always concerned but had no way to show it.)"

II. THE GOSPEL COMMUNITY INVITES US TO A SHARED CONTENTMENT
PHIL. 4:11-13 (CEB) "I’m not saying this because I need anything, for I have learned how to be content in any circumstance. I know the experience of being in need and of having more than enough; I have learned the secret to being content in any and every circumstance, whether full or hungry or whether having plenty or being poor. I can endure all these things through the power of the one who gives me strength."

III. THE GOSPEL COMMUNITY INVITES US TO A SHARED COMPENSATION
PHIL. 4:14-20 (CEB) "Still, you have done well to share my distress. You Philippians know from the time of my first mission work in Macedonia how no church shared in supporting my ministry except you. You sent contributions repeatedly to take care of my needs even while I was in Thessalonica. I’m not hoping for a gift, but I am hoping for a profit that accumulates in your account. I now have plenty and it is more than enough. I am full to overflowing because I received the gifts that you sent from Epaphroditus. Those gifts give off a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice that pleases God. My God will meet your every need out of his riches in the glory that is found in Christ Jesus. Let glory be given to God our Father forever and always. Amen."

 DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. How has concern for another led you to act on their behalf?  What did you learn from that experience?
2. When has contentment allowed you to reframe your circumstance?  What helps you to trust God even when life feels uncomfortable?
3. How have you seen God balance the scales of lack and pain with provision and joy?  Where are you still seeking God to do the same?